Venezuela condemns Guyana for asserting claims over a recent maritime incident involving a Venezuelan vessel in the disputed Essequibo region. Defense Minister Lopez argues that Venezuela’s actions are legally justified under the Geneva Agreement. International support for Guyana is growing, with calls for adherence to diplomatic solutions and respect for international law amidst escalating tensions.
Venezuela has issued a strong denunciation against Guyana and regional organizations, accusing them of fostering hostility over a maritime incident in the contested Essequibo region. Despite Guyana’s condemnation and international support, including from the United States, Venezuela maintains its position on the legality of its actions in the disputed waters. Venezuelan Defense Minister General Vladimir Padrino Lopez stated that the national armed force rejects Guyana’s claims, asserting that the issue is governed by the Geneva Agreement deposited with the United Nations.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali of Guyana has characterized the situation as an incursion, alleging that a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel entered Guyana’s exclusive economic zone on March 1. The vessel reportedly approached the Prosperity FPSO, operated offshore by ExxonMobil. An audio recording purported to show a Venezuelan representative asserting that the FPSO was operating in Venezuelan waters, intensifying the conflict.
Following Ali’s announcement, the US State Department accused the Venezuelan vessel of threatening ExxonMobil workers. In a related statement, Minister Lopez condemned Guyana’s exploitation of hydrocarbons and criticized ExxonMobil as an example of imperialistic interests meddling in the region. He emphasized that some regional organizations are exacerbating tensions rather than facilitating a resolution.
Lopez expressed that the Venezuelan armed forces are prepared to defend national integrity against perceived threats. This comes as the US offers a $15 million reward for information leading to Lopez’s arrest, citing his alleged involvement in drug trafficking. The US also disputes the legitimacy of the Venezuelan government under Nicolas Maduro, particularly following the contested 2024 election results.
Various countries and organizations, including Caricom and the Organization of American States, have extended their support to Guyana. Trinidad and Tobago’s Acting Prime Minister Stuart Young reaffirmed his country’s backing of Guyana’s sovereignty. Additionally, Commonwealth Secretary General Patricia Scotland has condemned the Venezuelan incursion, urging adherence to international law and support for Guyana.
Scotland’s statement highlighted the importance of diplomatic dialogue and respect for the International Court of Justice’s orders regarding the conflict. She urged the international community to continue backing Guyana as both countries work towards a peaceful resolution, as agreed upon in the Joint Declaration of Argyle signed in December 2023, which calls for the use of diplomatic means to settle disputes.
In summary, tensions between Venezuela and Guyana have escalated over a recent maritime incident in the disputed Essequibo region. Venezuela defends its actions based on its interpretation of international law, while Guyana asserts its rights to its exclusive economic zone. The international community, including the US and Commonwealth, has voiced support for Guyana, advocating for peaceful dialogue and adherence to international agreements. This situation underscores the need for diplomatic resolution in addressing territorial disputes.
Original Source: newsday.co.tt
